There are several things you need to be aware of during the entire process of acquiring your headshots.  First of all, it's important you do your homework and preparation.  Remember, there is more to a good headshot than a pretty picture.

Once you set up an appointment with me, if you're not already doing so, you should start doing your acting warm-up exercises on a daily basis. You should be doing them anyways, right? This should entail physical stretching, facial warm ups (eye clock rolls, facial stretches), and even some deep breathing. Not only will this help you work out tension, it's going to make you more comfortable in your body and put you at ease in front of the camera. If you've ever thought about doing yoga, now is a perfect time! And just like you would before an audition, be sure to do a good warm up on the day of the shoot. Also, be sure you are drinking lots of water and taking good care of your skin. Although I can touch up blemishes in post, it will only serve to help your own self confidence when you show up feeling good and looking good.

As far as getting ready for the shoot, you should pick out at least three different outfits to wear, keeping in mind the look and type you are going for.  You should bring a variety of clothes to wear, including at least six different tops and a pair of "universal bottoms".  Keep away from busy patterns, loud colors and logo embroidered apparel.  Dark colors are good, and patterns are okay if the pattern is entirely uniform and does not stand out from the clothing.  Neutral colors are okay too - just be sure they don't wash out your natural skin tone. Colors that contrast with skin tones work best.  For women, tops with different neck lines to choose from are great.  V-necks, turtlenecks and shoulder-less tops are all very good choices.  Stay away from shiny and distracting jewelry.

Regarding makeup, I can arrange to have have an excellent makeup artist, Dean Fornier, to be at the shoot.  He is the New York rep for Lorac and has done many a makeover (on TLC's "10 Years Younger" as well). If you decide to makeup yourself, keep it simple...less is better. For men, you do not need makeup, although it is okay to do blemish touchups and apply light powder. 

Lastly, be sure you have rested well the night before the shoot, and take some time to wind down just prior to the shoot.  I know we are all busy, but please do not try to schedule the shoot in the only two free hours you have in the day.  It is important that you are relaxed, comfortable, and prepared before the shoot takes place.